Montreal, Quebec May 23, 2026 – John Charrier, founder of Charrier Global Imports, has rolled out a new public challenge created to help people become more mindful of where products originate and how daily purchasing habits shape global trade connections.
Named the “Know Your Source” challenge, this straightforward seven-day public initiative focuses on raising awareness, fostering intentionality, and building better consumer habits. Participants are encouraged to spend one week paying closer attention to the items they already use regularly, as well as the backstories attached to those goods.
The idea for the challenge came from insights Charrier gained while working directly with producers and artisans across France, Italy, Peru, Brazil, and Morocco.
“You learn how much work hides behind something simple,” Charrier shared while reflecting on his early experiences visiting public markets and craft workshops overseas.
Another core guiding principle behind the challenge is drawn from his longstanding approach to managing supplier relationships.
“You can’t build trust on spreadsheets alone,” Charrier noted. “You build it over shared meals. Over lengthy conversations about harvest cycles.”
He also holds the view that many consumers rush through their purchase decision-making process.
“Growth is not always progress,” he explained. “Sometimes bigger just means harder to manage effectively.”
Why This Practice Matters
Recent research highlights growing consumer interest in product transparency and responsible sourcing:
- IBM data shows 57% of consumers are willing to adjust their purchasing habits to lower their environmental footprint.
- Nielsen research found products linked to sustainability claims grew 2.7 times faster than competing products without such claims.
- A PwC survey reported 76% of consumers prefer to support companies that treat their workers fairly.
- McKinsey research found resilient supply chains recover from disruptions significantly faster than fragile, poorly managed supplier networks.
Charrier believes small, consistent daily habits can boost awareness and improve purchase decision-making over time.
The 7-Day “Know Your Source” ChallengeDay 1 — Check One Product Label
Pick one item in your home and look up where it was manufactured.
Day 2 — Ask Yourself One Question
Consider how many different people played a role in getting that product to your hands.
Day 3 — Use Items You Already Own
Refrain from buying any new items for a full day.
Day 4 — Have a Conversation With a Seller
Ask a local shop owner or vendor about the origin of one of their products.
Day 5 — Slow Down One Purchase Decision
Hold off on making any non-essential purchase you were planning.
Day 6 — Pay Attention to Build Quality
Compare an item made to last for years with one designed for short-term convenience.
Day 7 — Reflect on Your Experience
Jot down one observation from the week that shifted your perspective on consumer goods.
Share Your Takeaways
Participants are invited to share their reflections online in whatever style and tone feels most natural to them.
Suggested prompts for posts include:
- “One new thing I learned about a product this week was…”
- “I slowed down my purchasing today by…”
- “A product I now have more appreciation for is…”
For participants who value their privacy, Charrier recommends writing a short daily journal entry instead of posting publicly.
“Writing things down helps people notice small details they usually overlook,” he said.
Invitation to Participate
The challenge is free and open to anyone interested in becoming more thoughtful about their consumption habits, sourcing practices, and daily purchase decisions.
Participants are encouraged to start with Day One, invite a friend to join alongside them, and share the challenge with their local and online communities.
Background on John Charrier
John Charrier is a Montreal-based entrepreneur and the founder of Charrier Global Imports. Since 2012, he has partnered with producers and artisans across Europe, Africa, and South America, with a focus on ethical sourcing, long-term supplier partnerships, and sustainable trade practices. His work is rooted in three core priorities: trust, quality, and centering the human stories behind the everyday products people use regularly.
Source: Jonathan Charrier Montreal
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